Legends of Opera

Zinka Milanov

Croatian born Zinka Milanov (originally named Zinka Kunc until changed to "Milanov" by an agent who pointed out its "inappropriateness" for Metropolitan audiences) had a stellar spinto soprano career.

She debuted at the Metropolitan in New York in 1937 but left there in 1947 when she married for the third time and moved back to Croatia.

After a sensational debut at La Scala in Milan as Tosca in 1950, she was persuaded by General Manager, of the Metropolitan, Rudolph Bing, to return to America where she remained as "reigning diva" until her retirement in 1966.

She continued teaching voice after her retirement- some of her pupils includedGrace Bumbry, Regina Resnik, and Christa Ludwig.

Her voice was particularly suited to Italian operas such as those of Verdi, Puccini, Ponchielli and the verismo composers.

Zinka Milanov is one of the featured stars on our "Legends" product range.